[tyingq]

The DOT has very specific rules about passenger compensation for passengers "bumped" off of flights via denied boarding:

https://www.transportation.gov/individuals/aviation-consumer...

"Over 2 hour arrival delay 400% of one-way fare (airlines may limit the compensation to $1,550 if 400% of the one-way fare is higher than $1,550)"

What they did in your case was illegal. Which has happened at Spirit before: https://www.transportation.gov/briefing-room/dot-fines-spiri...

You can file a complaint here: https://www.transportation.gov/airconsumer/file-consumer-com...

[michaelmrose]

When did this go into effect? Years back we tried to land twice due to fog then had to wait overnight with no accomodations to take the bus zero compensation. Still won't fly Southwest because they merged with the offender.

[tyingq]

Weather cancellations/delays don't count as denied boarding. These rules apply only if you're bumped due to overbooking.

[michaelmrose]

I was more talking about the overnight delay with no food or accommodations after the 2 failed trips in.

[tyingq]

Yeah, they have government regulations for that in Europe, but not in the US.

"There are no federal laws requiring airlines to provide passengers with money or other compensation when their flights are delayed"

https://www.transportation.gov/individuals/aviation-consumer...

The only regulations for delays in the US that helps passengers is some specifics about not stranding you in the aircraft/tarmac for more than 3 hours (domestic flights) or 4 hours (international flights).